Japan for First-Timers: 5 Quick Tips!
When I was accepted into the Come On Out - Japan program in 2018, you best believe that I spent hours and hours reading random forum threads and watching YouTube videos to prepare for my first trip to Japan. Having now traveled to Japan twice, once to teach (2018) and once on a solo-trip traversing across eight cities from Tokyo to Fukuoka (2019), I have reflected on the many, many logistical snafus I’ve made and experienced. Here are the top five things I recommend (and will be) doing, in order of importance, either before or as soon as you arrive in Japan to make your life (and COO experience) easier!
1. Download Japanese on Google Translate AND Google Maps.
BONUS: Learn the following:
· sumimasen – excuse me/sorry/thank you (use when you bump into someone, when you want to stop someone to ask for directions or help, or when you need to get the waiter’s attention)
· arigato gozaimasu – thank you
2. Get a SIM Card or PocketWifi.
There are many rental services you can find online to do so (prepaid SIM, rental SIM, rental PocketWifi, etc etc). As always, please do your research before you make a decision! I personally use CdJapan (https://rental.cdjapan.co.jp/) to rent an unlimited data SIM card. I have an iPhone and usually rent the cheapest data SIM they offer (200 MB high speed per day, unlimited 256Kbps afterwards (super slow data), for 40 days = ~53USD) and it is more than enough for ALL of my google maps, internet search, and Messenger/ WhatsApp/ LINE needs. (Disclaimer: I preferred this option because I don’t use much social media and didn’t want to carry around a PocketWifi everywhere). If you’re someone who often checks their social media apps and streams videos on data, I would recommend getting the PocketWifi instead. While there’s free wifi at train stations and convenience stores, I found that being able to communicate and navigate from any location was way more convenient and gave me a sense of independence and safety. (Note: if you decide to pick up your rental from the post office at your arrival airport, make sure you are arriving WITHIN the post office operating hours).
3. Buy a Pasmo or Suica card. Doesn’t matter which one, depends if you like pink or penguin. When you arrive at your airport, navigate your way to the public transportation area and get yourself an IC card ASAP. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE CASH. While credit cards are great, Japan is definitely a cash society and these machines only accept cash. I recommend putting in 5000 JPY (~50 USD) to start off. These cards are used on all public transportation and can be used to pay at any convenience store (just say “Pasmo” or “Suica” when you pay) and even at some vending machines. You can reload them later on as needed.
4. Bring an electrical adapter and portable charger. While your iPhone chargers will work just fine here, you definitely need an adapter if your laptop charger is three-pronged or otherwise. You will also always either be lost or looking for a place to eat, so your phone will run out of battery quickly. Also I apologize for the focus on iPhones, but that is the only experience I can speak to (sorry Android and other users)!
5. Go to a 100Y shop within the first week. The dollar stores in Japan are a dream (not to be confused with convenience stores like 7/11, FamilyMart, and Lawson). Stop by here for basic necessities that you perhaps forgot to bring (towel, toothbrush, wet wipes) or things you may later need for teaching (whiteboard, stationary, snacks). My top recommendations are Daiso or Can Do. Prices here are much lower if you don’t care about name brand things. If you’re pickier about skincare/soaps/makeup brands, I would recommend going to variety stores like Don Quijote or Bic Camera.
All in all, Japan (esp. major cities like Tokyo and Osaka) are traveler friendly, so don’t stress too much. But most importantly, make sure to come to Japan with an open mind and an open heart, and I promise you’ll have a wonderful time. Good luck!
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By Angela Lin, 2018 and 2020 Global English Camp intern